Tribal Revolts of Bihar - 2 | BPSC Preparation: All subjects - BPSC (Bihar) PDF Download

Lotah Uprising

• The Lotah Uprising in 1856 erupted in response to the British Government's decision to replace brass vessels (Lotahs) with earthen vessels in jails. This change offended the religious sentiments of prisoners in Arrah and Muzaffarpur jails, as brass was considered sacred.
• The prisoners initiated the movement, which garnered support from the local population, leading to attacks on prisons. In response to the escalating protests, the British Government eventually reversed its decision, allowing the use of brass vessels once again.

Sardari Movement

The Sardari Movement, initiated in 1858, was an agrarian uprising led by Christian tribal peasants against oppressive landlords and the Begari system in agriculture. The movement sought land reforms and aimed to improve agricultural practices of the time.

Over time, the Sardari Movement merged with the religiously inclined movement led by Birsa Munda. This amalgamation is discussed in SC Rai's book, "The Mundas."

Munda Revolt

• The Munda Revolt, led by Birsa Munda in the late 19th century, was a response to the British imposition of forest regulations that stripped Adivasis of their rights over forest land and produce. The 1865 Forest Regulation Act and the subsequent Indian Forest Act of 1878 severely restricted Adivasi access to protected and reserve forests, transforming traditional common property into state property.
• Birsa Munda's movement, also known as Ulgulan, aimed to establish Munda rule by targeting local agents such as thikadars, jagirdars, rajas, and hakims. Despite gathering a significant following, the movement was met with brutal suppression by British forces. Birsa Munda was captured in 1900 and died in prison later that year.
• The uprising led to the implementation of new land rights, including the Mundari Khuntkatti system under the Tenancy Act and the passage of the Chota Nagpur Tenancy Act in 1908. In the 20th century, the Mundas continued to resist exploitation, including revolting against the Queen of Gangpur, who was backed by the British.
• Under the leadership of Nirmala Munda, they resisted the British in 1939, but the uprising was violently suppressed, resulting in the deaths of Mundas at Ameko Simako near Raiboga.

Sapha Har Movement

• Also known as the Kherwar Movement, this initiative started in 1868 by Bhagirath Manjhi and was predominantly led by the Santhal community. 
• The movement advocated for the idea of one God and social reforms, including the cessation of sacrifices to 'evil bongas.' Bhagirath Manjhi proclaimed himself the King of the Santhals and called for a separate Santhal state. However, similar to other movements, it was repressed by the English East India Company.

Tana Bhagat Movement

• Originating in 1914 among the Oraon tribe in Chota Nagpur (now in Jharkhand), the Tana Bhagat Movement is a religious movement considered an extension of the Birsa Movement. 
• Led by figures like Jatra Bhagat and supported by others such as Balram Bhagat and Bhikhu Bhagat, the movement is characterized by the incorporation of Hindu practices and a focus on fighting against foreign exploitation, landlords, and contractors. 
• It also opposed British-imposed taxes and embraced non-violence inspired by Mahatma Gandhi.